The court heard that on 19 December the Police Scotland helicopter was deployed as part of targeted activity to catch Richardson, during which time he was spotted getting into a black Mini.

He became aware of the helicopter and made off at excessive speed, driving on the opposite carriageway before abandoning the car at an Esso petrol station in Keppochill Road.

He then got into another vehicle before being arrested by officers from the Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit (OCCTU).

It is believed that when Richardson realised he was being followed, he thought he was being tailed by other underworld figures.

Image copyrightPolice Scotland

Image copyrightPolice Scotland

Det Insp Graeme Naysmith from the OCCTU, said: "Significant police resources were utilised to apprehend Mark Richardson Jnr, who was actively doing all he could to avoid detection.

"On the day of his eventual arrest, Richardson drove at speeds exceeding 65mph in a 30mph zone while fleeing police. His actions were not only reckless but exceptionally dangerous and put other motorists and members of the public at real risk of harm.

"His arrest was the culmination of extensive planning and co-operation from a range of Police Scotland departments and I want to thank all of those involved who helped ensure Richardson received another custodial sentence."